The Godfather is Back: Lee Soo-man Launches Weekly “A2O ZALPHA AUDITION” to Find the Next K-pop Icons

Think you have what it takes to be the next global superstar? The man who built the very foundations of K-pop is looking for you. Following the expiration of his non-compete clause, SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo-man is officially making his grand return to the Korean music scene with the A2O ZALPHA AUDITION.

This isn’t just another talent search; it’s the first major move from Lee’s new label, A2O Entertainment Korea, and it marks the beginning of what he calls “K-pop 2.0.”

No Appointment? No Problem! The “Every Sunday” Open Call

In an industry known for its notoriously gatekept trainee systems and grueling pre-screening processes, Lee Soo-man is breaking the mold. The A2O ZALPHA AUDITION operates under the refreshing slogan: “EVERY SUNDAY, A NEW POSSIBILITY BEGINS.”

Starting now, hopefuls can simply walk into the A2O Entertainment Korea headquarters in Gangnam, Seoul, every Sunday between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. No prior application, no invitation, and no red tape. Whether you excel in vocals, rap, dance, or acting, the door is wide open to anyone regardless of nationality or gender. For those who can’t make it to the heart of K-pop’s capital, online applications remain a steady option through the agency’s official channels.

From Seoul to the World: The Vision of Lee Soo-man

This audition isn’t just a local talent hunt; it’s a global blueprint. While it kicks off in Seoul, A2O Entertainment has already signaled plans to expand the A2O ZALPHA AUDITION to Japan, the United States, and beyond.

Lee Soo-man, the visionary behind legendary acts like H.O.T., EXO, and NCT, is personally overseeing the project. After a period of focusing on overseas ventures—including the launch of the China-centric girl group A2O May—this domestic return signifies his readiness to redefine the “Zalpha” (Gen Z + Alpha) generation’s music culture. By removing the barriers to entry, Lee is betting on raw potential and the “on-the-spot” charisma that defines modern digital stars.

Will You Be the Next A2O Star?

The K-pop world has been waiting for Lee Soo-man’s next move since his high-profile exit from SM. With A2O Entertainment Korea now officially in the talent-scouting business, the stakes for the next generation of idols have never been higher.

If you’ve ever dreamed of being trained by the architect of the idol system, your Sunday plans just got a lot more interesting. Grab your shoes, warm up those vocal cords, and head to Gangnam—your “Zalpha-Pop” journey might be just one Sunday away.